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When pressure is put on the sciatic nerve in the spine, or the nerve becomes compressed, it can result in pain that shoots down the lower back and legs. This common condition is known as Sciatica.
Sciatica is an extremely common condition that refers to pain triggered by pressure being placed on the sciatic nerve that radiates from the point of the affected area of the nerve down through the legs. In many cases, sciatica is usually caused by a herniated disc or bone spur, can range from mild to severe, and can be felt from the lower back to the foot.
While more conservative treatment options, such as pain management, has been known to treat the symptoms of sciatica, if the pain worsens or becomes debilitating it could be the result of an underlying condition, further diagnosis may be needed.
Sciatica can manifest in many types of symptoms including pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, and feet. The pain itself can range from sharp and shooting to numb and tingling. Often affecting only one side of the body, sciatica can make it difficult to sit, stand up, walk, or generally move the leg, foot or lower portion of the body.
A herniated disc or bone spur applying pressure to the sciatic nerve in the spine are often the culprit to sciatica, however, other factors, such as being overweight, lack of exercise, frequently wearing high heels or other unsupportive footwear can contribute to the symptoms of sciatica. Talking with Dr. Bruggeman about any symptoms you experience will help get a diagnosis and course of treatment.
Sciatica is a very common condition that can be treated in a variety of ways, from at-home remedies to surgical procedures. While conservative methods, such as physical therapy, medications, or spinal injections may provide temporary pain relief, a full evaluation of your unique case and medical history is necessary to recommend the ideal treatment for you.
When nonsurgical measures do not provide adequate relief, minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as a discectomy may be recommended. Receiving a full evaluation and proper diagnosis from Dr. Bruggeman is the first step to finding the right treatment for your case.
Take the first step toward a pain-free life. Use our online pain evaluation tool to determine what treatment may be right for you.
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